The Ultimate Guide to Explore the Best of New Hampshire: Adventure, Culture, Food, and Unique Experiences
Nestled in the northeastern region of the United States, New Hampshire is a hidden gem for travel enthusiasts. With its picturesque mountain ranges, charming coastal towns, and rich history, it’s easy to see why this small state is a popular destination for tourists all year round. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, there’s something here for everyone.
The Natural Beauty of New Hampshire
Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by the many opportunities to explore New Hampshire’s stunning natural scenery. The White Mountains are a must-visit destination where you can hike some of the most challenging trails in the country.
One highly recommended hike is Mount Washington which offers breathtaking views from its summit. If skiing and snowboarding are more your speed, then head to popular resorts like Loon Mountain or Bretton Woods and hit the slopes.
New Hampshire boasts beautiful lakes that offer water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing. Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the state’s largest lakes and offers breathtaking views along with plenty of opportunities to explore its waters.
Cultural Attractions That Will Leave You Enchanted
New Hampshire isn’t just about outdoor adventures; it also has several cultural attractions worth exploring. The historic Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth is a living museum that showcases life in Colonial America with costumed actors playing out scenes from daily life during that time period.
If music is more your scene, then Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion (formerly known as Meadowbrook) should be on your list. This open-air amphitheater hosts some of the biggest names in music every summer.
The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester houses an impressive collection of American art from various periods including works by famous artists like Picasso and Monet. So if you’re looking for a vacation spot that combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, New Hampshire is the perfect destination.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking in the White Mountains
If you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, the White Mountains offer a range of trails for all experience levels. The Franconia Ridge Loop is one of the most popular and challenging hikes, offering stunning views of Mount Lafayette and the surrounding peaks.
For a more leisurely hike, check out the Flume Gorge trail, which takes you through a narrow chasm with waterfalls and rock formations. Don’t forget to check the weather before heading out as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Skiing and snowboarding at popular resorts like Loon Mountain and Bretton Woods
New Hampshire is known for its ski resorts, with Loon Mountain and Bretton Woods being some of the most popular ones. Both offer a variety of trails for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.
If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on one of their designated trails. And when you need a break from the slopes, warm up with some hot cocoa or mulled wine at one of their cozy lodges.
Kayaking or canoeing on Lake Winnipesaukee
Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s largest lake and offers plenty of opportunities for water activities like kayaking or canoeing. Rent a kayak or bring your own to explore the lake’s beautiful shoreline and islands.
You can also fish for bass or trout if you have a fishing license. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try waterskiing or wakeboarding with some friends – just make sure to follow safety guidelines and wear life jackets!
Cultural Attractions
Preserving History at the Strawbery Banke Museum
When it comes to immersing yourself in history, few places can compare to the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth. This living history museum has over forty buildings that date back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries, all of which are painstakingly preserved and open for visitors to explore.
From colonial-era houses and shops to Victorian mansions, you can see what life was like in New Hampshire during different periods of history. Interpreters dressed in period clothing are on hand to provide context and answer your questions.
Live Shows at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
Music lovers should definitely check out the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford. This outdoor amphitheater hosts concerts throughout the summer months featuring some big-name musicians from a variety of genres.
From country stars like Keith Urban and Miranda Lambert to rock legends like ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd, there’s something for everyone here. The venue is situated on a beautiful hillside overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee, so even if you’re not much of a music fan, you’ll appreciate the stunning views.
Art Appreciation at the Currier Museum of Art
If you’re an art lover, you won’t want to miss the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester. This small but impressive museum has an extensive collection that spans several centuries and includes works by famous artists such as Picasso, Monet, O’Keeffe, and Wyeth.
In addition to its permanent collections, the museum also hosts temporary exhibits throughout the year that focus on different aspects of art history or showcase up-and-coming contemporary artists. Whether you’re an art expert or just someone who appreciates beauty when they see it – this museum is definitely worth a visit.
Food and Drink
Sample local craft beers at breweries like Smuttynose Brewing Company and Woodstock Inn Brewery
New Hampshire is home to a number of fantastic breweries where visitors can sample local craft beers. Two of the most popular are Smuttynose Brewing Company and Woodstock Inn Brewery.
Smuttynose is located in Hampton, NH, and offers tours of their facility as well as tastings of their wide range of brews. They produce everything from IPAs to stouts, and visitors can even take home a souvenir growler filled with their favorite beer.
Meanwhile, Woodstock Inn Brewery in North Woodstock is known for its award-winning Pig’s Ear Brown Ale, but also offers a variety of other delicious options. They have an on-site restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal paired with one of their brews.
Try traditional New England seafood dishes like lobster rolls and clam chowder
No trip to New Hampshire would be complete without trying some traditional New England seafood dishes. Lobster rolls are a staple in the region, and there are plenty of great places to try them throughout the state. Some popular spots include The Beach Plum in Portsmouth, Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery, ME (just over the border), and Petey’s Summertime Seafood & Bar on Rye Beach.
Clam chowder is another must-try dish – creamy and hearty, it’s perfect for colder days or after a day spent exploring the outdoors. A few top spots for clam chowder include The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie’s Inn in Hampton Falls (which also has great seafood dishes), The River House in Portsmouth (which has an amazing view overlooking the Piscataqua River), and Popovers on the Square in Portsmouth (which has won numerous awards for its chowder).
Visit farmers’ markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods
New Hampshire is known for its farmers’ markets, which offer everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Some popular markets include the Concord Farmers’ Market, the Portsmouth Farmers’ Market, and the Lancaster Marketplace. Visitors can find a variety of fruits and vegetables grown locally, as well as meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
In addition to food items, many markets also feature vendors selling handmade crafts such as pottery and jewelry. The Canterbury Artisan Festival is another great event to check out – it’s held annually in September and features dozens of local artisans showcasing their work.
Unique Experiences
Take a Scenic Drive along the Kancamagus Highway
Are you looking for a breathtakingly beautiful drive through the mountains? Look no further than the Kancamagus Highway!
This 34-mile stretch of road is located in the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains and offers some of the most stunning views in New England. You’ll be surrounded by lush forests, towering mountain peaks, and cascading waterfalls.
The colors of fall make it an especially popular attraction with tourists seeking fall foliage. There are plenty of pull-offs along the way where you can stop to take photos or simply soak up your surroundings.
Be sure to check out Sabbaday Falls, located right off the highway, for a short hike to a picturesque waterfall. Whether you’re driving through in summer or winter (when the roads are open), this scenic route is a must-do for anyone visiting New Hampshire.
Go Moose Watching in Pittsburg, NH
If you’re an animal lover seeking a unique experience, head up to Pittsburg in northern New Hampshire for some moose watching! With over 1000 moose living in this area alone, your chances of spotting one are pretty high.
There are also guided tours available that will take you deep into moose territory led by experienced guides who know all about these majestic creatures. While on your tour, keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife such as bald eagles and bears.
These tours typically operate during dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Make sure to dress appropriately as temperatures can drop rapidly once the sun goes down.
Attend the Annual Laconia Motorcycle Week
Every June since 1924, motorcycle enthusiasts from all over flock to Laconia for their annual Motorcycle Week event. This week-long festival includes bike shows, races, live music, and plenty of vendors selling motorcycle-related merchandise. You’ll see bikers from all walks of life, from leather-clad riders on choppers to families cruising on their Harleys.
There’s something for everyone at this event. One of the highlights of the week is the “Weir’s Beach” event, which brings together thousands of bikers for a parade along the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee.
If you’re not into motorcycles, don’t worry – there are plenty of other events going on throughout the week that are worth checking out. From live music to street performers, you’ll be entertained no matter what your interests are.
New Hampshire offers so many unique experiences beyond just its beautiful landscapes and cultural attractions. From taking a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway to spotting moose in Pittsburg or experiencing biker culture at Laconia Motorcycle Week – there truly is something for everyone in this small but mighty state!
Conclusion
New Hampshire truly has something for everyone when it comes to travel and adventure. From the outdoor enthusiasts to the cultural connoisseurs, there are plenty of activities and experiences to enjoy. The White Mountains offer some of the best hiking in the country, with stunning views that will take your breath away.
Skiing and snowboarding at popular resorts like Loon Mountain and Bretton Woods are a must-do activity in the winter months. For those who appreciate culture, New Hampshire has plenty of options as well.
The historic Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth is an excellent destination for history buffs. Attend a concert at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion or explore the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester for an exciting cultural experience.
Foodies will love sampling local craft beers at breweries like Smuttynose Brewing Company and Woodstock Inn Brewery, or trying traditional New England seafood dishes like lobster rolls and clam chowder. For fresh produce and artisanal goods, be sure to visit one of the many farmers’ markets around the state.
While there are many unique experiences to choose from when visiting New Hampshire, driving along the Kancamagus Highway is a must-do for any traveler. This scenic route will take you through some of New Hampshire’s most beautiful landscapes, including national forest areas with stunning foliage in the fall.
Overall, visiting New Hampshire is a fantastic travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or cultural experiences, delicious food or unique attractions, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful state!